Introvert's Secret to Networking
Introverts can find the networking process an intimidating prospect, particularly the necessity to cultivate contacts at well-attended events. However daunting it may seem, some of the most successful entrepreneurs and CEOs in the world describe themselves as introverts including Bill Gates, Warren Buffet and Charles Schwab. Fortunately, there are some secrets to unlocking the hidden extrovert, maximizing time spent with clients and improving business relationships that already exist.
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Overcome Insecurities
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It's easy to dismiss networking as superficial or something best left to extroverts, but in the long run networking saves time and energy that could be devoted to other projects. Knowing the right people to call or message immediately rather than fruitlessly searching around through a narrow list of contacts could make the difference between success and failure. The first step to overcoming nervousness about networking is to realize just how crucial it can be to your business.
Email and Social Networking
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The huge advances in communication technology in recent years mean that face-to-face communication is not always a necessity. The advantage of messaging online is that the sender has time to craft the perfect message and also small-talk and other social niceties are rarely required. Don't allow this to become the only form of interaction, however, as forging a client base ultimately requires the ability to communicate well in person, but sounding professional in an email is good practice.
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Make the Right Contacts
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Networking is only one element to the successful business person, and there's no shame in acknowledging others are just better at cultivating important friendships. In fact, locating the best networkers can be an efficient way of building a client portfolio. Befriending the guy who knows all the PR specialists in town is preferable to establishing a relationship with just one PR specialist. This way, developing a network of just a few key names can grant access to a much wider talent pool.
Develop the Relationship
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Take the time to stay in regular contact with important people. Making the relationship more than merely professional, developing a real friendship can ensure clients and providers will go the extra mile. In addition, stay in touch with university and even high school acquaintances; if they end up in influential positions, any history of friendship can only help the networking process.
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References
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